I like to keep milk crates and other plastic mesh storage containers around, both for stackable, space-saving storage but also because they have handles and they're easy to move. The trouble is that when they're full of stuff, the handles dig into your hands when you pick them up. If you have a spare garden hose in your basement, you can make carrying them around much more comfortable.

The trick is pretty simple—just cut the garden hose into strips that are long or wide enough to wrap around the handle. The added cushion of the plastic hose will alleviate that cutting sensation when you've been carrying a bucket full of water or a milk crate full of books. The suggestion comes to us from This Old House, which has a bunch of other great uses for an old garden hose in your house and in the garden. Before you throw yours out and pick up a new one, give the list a look. Do you have any suggestions to add? Better cushions to use when carrying heavy objects? Let us know in the comments.